George Lee Ralph

Deacon George Lee Ralph, 94 years old, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, surrounded by his devoted family and embraced by the love and grace of the Lord. He was the beloved widower of the late Hattie Mary (Goodman) Ralph. Mr. Ralph was born on May 10, 1930, in Gatesville, North Carolina, and later moved to Newport News, Virginia. He was the son of the late Venova (Goodman) Manley and Vivian Ralph Sr., and the stepson of Lillie D. Ralph and Lloyd Manley. Raised on a farm, George had a deep love for riding horses and always dressed like a cowboy. His stylish boots, hats, and clothing gave him a unique presence, earning him the nickname "Cowboy George Lee Ralph." In 1947, he relocated to Waterbury, Connecticut, in search of a better life and found employment at Chase Brass and Buckle Manufacturing Company. Upon retiring, he co-founded Ralph and Ralph Moving Company with his late brother, Grover Ralph. Beyond his deep love for horses, George found joy in fishing, gardening, collecting antique automobiles, and riding his motorcycle-his modern-day substitute for a horse after moving to Connecticut. He also had a passion for boxing and wrestling, often describing himself as "LIGHTENING" because he "LIT THEM UP." More than anything, George cherished time spent with family and friends. His quick wit, sense of humor, and countless joyful moments shared with his grandchildren will always remain irreplaceable. George favorite saying was "HANG IN THERE." George became a member of New Bethel Church under the leadership of the late Elder Roland H. Rowe and the late Lorraine Rowe and late Pastor Eddie Styles and Essie Styles and now Bishop Augustus D. Pullen. His unwavering faith and dedication to the Lord led him to be ordained as a Deacon. He loved serving, praising, and worshiping God. George had a passion for speaking the Word, encouraging others, and helping those in need-he truly had a giving heart and would offer the shirt off his back. In recognition of his commitment to faithfully serving and inspiring others for all the lives that he impacted over the years; so many were blessed by his words of wisdom and acts of kindness, George received an official citation from the City of Waterbury signed by the Mayor Neil O'Leary. He leaves behind two sons, Brian Rod Parker, and Timothy Sumler, 5 daughters: Evangelist Shirley Sears Douglas, Renata Renee Goodman, Christine (Ralph) Foote, Regina Ralph, and Minister April Ralph, and 2 sons-in-law Stanley Foote and Richard Mitchell all of Waterbury, CT., predeceased by his son, Willie Nathan Goodman; daughter, Diane Riddick Williams; and his brothers, Grover Edward Ralph, Vivian Ralph Jr., and James (Buddy Boy) Henry Ralph. Additionally, he leaves behind a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and dear friend. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of George, please visit our floral store.